As sustainability becomes increasingly important, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has emerged as the global standard for green building. LEED v4.1, an updated version, introduces more stringent benchmarks for energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and overall environmental performance. This certification is more than just a label—it represents a hotel’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and creating a healthier, more resource-efficient space for both guests and staff.

What is LEED v4.1 and Why Does It Matter?

LEED v4.1 certification is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and focuses on the sustainability of building operations and maintenance, particularly for existing buildings. Key features of LEED v4.1 include:

1. Energy and Atmosphere: LEED v4.1 prioritizes energy performance, requiring buildings to optimize their energy use through renewable energy sources, energy-efficient lighting, and reduced fossil fuel dependency.

2. Water Efficiency: Water-saving technologies and practices are crucial, including low-flow fixtures and effective water recycling methods. This criterion aims to protect water resources while lowering utility costs.

3. Materials and Resources: Hotels must adopt a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach, ensuring that building materials are sustainable, reusable, and sourced responsibly.

4. Indoor Environmental Quality: To provide a healthy environment, LEED v4.1 emphasizes indoor air quality, natural lighting, and minimal pollutant emissions, creating a comfortable space for guests and employees.

5. Innovation in Design: Properties are encouraged to incorporate unique, innovative approaches to sustainability that go beyond standard practices, from using biogas to integrating green roofs.

Why LEED v4.1 Certification is Essential for Hospitality

For hotels, obtaining LEED v4.1 certification is a forward-thinking investment. It boosts a hotel’s appeal among eco-conscious travelers, aligns with global environmental standards, and reduces operational costs over time. In India, where the hospitality sector is rapidly expanding, integrating LEED standards can significantly reduce the industry’s environmental impact, create jobs in green energy sectors, and promote a culture of sustainability across the nation.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru: Setting an Example

Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, stands out as the first hotel in India to achieve the LEED v4.1 Platinum certification for Operations and Maintenance of an Existing Building. Their achievements include:

• Renewable Energy Integration: They have reduced reliance on fossil fuels by incorporating electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like solar power.
• Biogas Plant: Their on-site biogas plant processes up to 500 kg of food waste daily, which produces enough gas to prepare meals for 300 staff members.
• Resource Management: A strong “Reduce-Reuse-Repair & Recycle” program ensures responsible use of materials and waste reduction, contributing to cost savings and environmental health.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates the significant operational benefits and community impact a hotel can achieve by aligning with LEED standards.

Moving Forward: Steps for Hotels to Embrace Sustainability

For other hotels in India, the LEED v4.1 framework provides actionable steps toward sustainability:

1. Incorporate Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas plants can help hotels reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources.
2. Implement Efficient Water Management: Hotels can adopt rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems to conserve water.
3. Adopt Waste Management Systems: From recycling programs to composting, efficient waste management aligns with LEED goals and minimizes landfill waste.
4. Pursue LEED Certification: Following LEED standards can improve a hotel’s sustainability profile, reduce costs, and increase appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Congratulating Radisson Blu Bengaluru on Their Achievement

Congratulations to Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, for their leadership in sustainable hospitality and for setting a new standard in India. Their journey toward LEED v4.1 Platinum certification exemplifies what’s possible when hotels embrace sustainability, and their efforts pave the way for a greener hospitality industry in India.

Stotrak Hotels is marking Uttarakhand Day 2024 with a week-long series of cultural events across its properties in Mussoorie, Dakpathar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Known as Uttarakhand Diwas, the annual celebration on November 9 commemorates the founding of the Indian state of Uttarakhand.

From November 3 to 9, 2024, Stotrak Hotels will highlight Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty through a range of special activities and offerings. The celebration will include traditional dining experiences, exclusive discounts, eco-tourism activities, and daily craft fairs, creating a comprehensive showcase of the region’s traditions.

Manish Goyal, Founder of Stotrak Hotels, said, “We have always been dedicated to offering local flavors at our hotels. With most of our existing properties in Uttarakhand, and plans to expand further with six new locations, we wanted everyone to be part of this 24th foundation day celebration.”

The event lineup features a 24% discount on all bookings for stays during the celebration week. Guests will enjoy added perks like room upgrades, enhanced meal plans, and unique experiences such as nature walks, yoga sessions, and live cultural performances.

Dining options will include a daily serving of the traditional Uttarakhandi Thali, showcasing authentic regional dishes at all Stotrak dining outlets. The craft fairs will offer visitors a chance to purchase local products, including pickles, millet-based snacks, and handmade souvenirs at special prices. Additionally, guests can join interactive workshops with local artisans and participate in eco-friendly initiatives, supporting the hotel chain’s commitment to sustainability.

Stotrak Hotels’ locations participating in the celebrations include Sukoon – A Wellness Resort in Dakpathar, Hotel Rishikesh Grand in Rishikesh, Spice Hotel in SELAQUI, Dehradun, and The Kenilworth, Luxury Inn, SN Residency, and Sangam By Stotrak in Mussoorie.

Founded by IHM alumni Yogita and Manish, Stotrak Hotels operates properties in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, focusing on delivering experiential stays that capture local culture.

Mercure Hotels, part of Accor’s portfolio, has reached a major milestone with the opening of its 1,000th hotel worldwide. This achievement showcases Mercure’s growth and reinforces its position as a key midscale brand within Accor’s extensive collection. With a focus on authentic, locally inspired experiences, Mercure continues to play an essential role in Accor’s strategy of providing diverse lodging options that connect guests with their destinations.

The milestone was marked by recent openings across various global markets. New additions include Mercure London Earls Court in the U.K., which features 282 rooms infused with British pop culture themes; Mercure Chandigarh Tribune Chowk in India, blending modern amenities with local flair; and Mercure Fukuoka Munakata Resort & Spa in Japan, emphasizing relaxation and scenic beauty.

Jean-Jacques Morin, Accor’s Group Deputy CEO, highlighted the brand’s achievements, noting, “2024 has been a transformative year for Mercure. The opening of our 1,000th destination confirms the status of a brand that has one of the largest international midscale hotel portfolios. We look forward to seeing how far this attractive and energetic brand will go over the next fifty years.”

The Mercure brand has evolved significantly since the opening of its first hotel in Saint-Witz, France, in 1973. Acquired by Accor in 1975, Mercure expanded rapidly in Europe and internationally, reaching markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East by the 1990s. The brand celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023 by doubling down on its “Discover Local” program, which encourages guests to engage with local culture through specially curated experiences and regional culinary offerings.

Recent developments include Mercure's expansion in Asia, particularly in Japan and China. In Japan, the brand opened 11 new properties in 2024, such as Mercure Kyoto Miyazu Resort & Spa, showcasing the blend of tradition and modernity. In China, Mercure strengthened its presence with properties like Mercure Nantong Renmin Road, combining contemporary design with local influences.

Mercure's emphasis on local culture is evident in new openings such as Mercure Dubai Deira in the UAE, which offers 152 rooms and a rooftop pool, featuring locally inspired cuisine. In Europe, the Mercure London Earls Court integrates British cultural elements into its design, appealing to both tourists and locals.

Camil Yazbeck, Chief Development Officer for Accor's Premium, Midscale, and Economy Division, emphasized the brand’s strong partnerships, stating, “It is our valuable partnerships with Mercure hotel owners that fuel the brand’s dynamism and give life to a community of passionate hoteliers.”

Looking forward, Mercure has over 200 properties in development, reflecting the brand’s popularity and demand in the midscale hotel segment.